Hostile interviewee

Definition

A hostile interviewee is a person being interviewed who displays resistance, aggression, or reluctance to engage with the interviewer, often resulting in tension during the interview process. This type of interviewee may challenge questions, become defensive, or refuse to provide clear answers, making it crucial for interviewers to be prepared and employ specific techniques to manage the situation effectively.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hostile interviewees may have various reasons for their behavior, including fear of exposure, distrust of the media, or past negative experiences.
2. Effective preparation for interviews with hostile subjects includes researching their background and formulating questions that are neutral and non-confrontational.
3. Building rapport with the interviewee can help mitigate hostility; techniques such as showing empathy or finding common ground can be beneficial.
4. It's important for interviewers to remain calm and composed when faced with a hostile interviewee, as reacting emotionally can escalate the situation further.
5. Having a clear objective and knowing when to move on from a topic can help maintain control of the interview and prevent it from becoming unproductive.

Review Questions

• How can an interviewer effectively prepare for an encounter with a hostile interviewee?
  • To prepare for a hostile interviewee, an interviewer should research the individual's background to understand potential triggers for hostility. Creating a list of neutral and open-ended questions can help avoid confrontation. Additionally, practicing active listening techniques will allow the interviewer to respond appropriately and defuse tension when necessary.
• Discuss some strategies that can be used during the interview to manage a hostile interviewee's behavior.
  • During the interview, strategies such as maintaining a calm demeanor, using de-escalation techniques, and demonstrating empathy can help manage a hostile interviewee's behavior. Establishing rapport by acknowledging their feelings and showing understanding can also make them feel more at ease. It's essential for the interviewer to stay focused on the objectives while adapting their approach based on the interviewee's responses.
• Evaluate the impact of successfully managing a hostile interviewee on the overall outcome of an interview.
  • Successfully managing a hostile interviewee can significantly enhance the overall outcome of an interview by creating an environment conducive to open dialogue. When an interviewer navigates hostility effectively, it not only allows for more informative responses but also portrays professionalism and credibility. This management can lead to revealing insights that might have been missed in a confrontational setting, ultimately resulting in richer content for the audience.

Related terms

Active Listening: A communication technique that involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what the other person is saying to foster better dialogue.

Interview Techniques: Methods or strategies used by interviewers to elicit information effectively, especially in challenging situations.

De-escalation: Strategies employed to reduce tension or hostility in a situation, aiming to achieve a more productive conversation.